Zengxin Gao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Zengxin Gao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Innovative Research Award

Department of Orthopedics, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine | China

Dr. Zengxin Gao is a highly accomplished Chief Physician at Southeast University, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital, recognized for his expertise in orthopedics and minimally invasive spinal interventions. He completed his PhD in Orthopedics at Peking Union Medical College in 2008, following a Master’s degree in Orthopedics (2005) and a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Nanjing Medical University (1990). Dr. Zengxin Gao’s clinical career spans over 30 years, beginning as a physician at Nantong University Affiliated Dongtai Hospital, advancing to attending and associate chief physician, and currently serving as Chief Physician at Southeast University Affiliated Zhongda Hospital since 2015. His research focuses on spinal surgery, intervertebral disc regeneration, and innovative minimally invasive techniques for chronic low back and leg pain, particularly in elderly patients. He has led notable projects, including the Jiangsu Provincial Health Commission’s New Technology Introduction Project on percutaneous single-axis hole microscopy (2021–2023). Dr. Zengxin Gao has made significant scholarly contributions, including sole corresponding authorship in Wenbin Xuan, Yucheng Gao, Zengxin Gao. Intraspinal Bone Fragments Resorption in Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture. JAMA Neurol. 2023;80(11):1248–1249 [Cited 12]; co-first authorship in Linhui Ye, Zengxin Gao, Saeed Rohani. Intervertebral disk regeneration in a rat model by allopurinol-loaded Chitosan/alginate hydrogel. Biomol Biomed. 2023;23(4):661–670 [Cited 5]; and co-corresponding authorship in Shuhua Fang et al. Circ_0027885 sponges miR-203-3p to regulate RUNX2 expression and alleviates osteoporosis progression. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2024;25:5 [Cited 3]. He has been awarded the Provincial and Ministerial First Prize for the Medical New Technology Introduction Award (2022) for pioneering percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic intervertebral fusion. Dr. Zengxin Gao’s combination of clinical expertise, innovative research, and leadership in orthopedics underscores his outstanding contributions and makes him an ideal candidate for the Innovative Research Award.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

• Xuan, W., Gao, Y., & Gao, Z. (2023). Intraspinal bone fragments resorption in thoracolumbar burst fracture. JAMA Neurology, 80(11), 1248–1249.
https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.2901

• Ye, L., Gao, Z., & Rohani, S. (2023). Intervertebral disk regeneration in a rat model by allopurinol-loaded chitosan/alginate hydrogel. Biomolecules and Biomedicine, 23(4), 661–670.
https://doi.org/10.17305/bjbms.2023.8535

• Fang, S., Cao, D., Wu, Z., Chen, J., Huang, Y., Shen, Y., & Gao, Z. (2024). Circ_0027885 sponges miR-203-3p to regulate RUNX2 expression and alleviates osteoporosis progression. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 25(1), 5.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-023-07172-0

• Gao, Z., Lin, Y., Wu, Z., Zhang, P., Cheng, Q., Ye, L., Wu, F., Chen, Y., Fu, M., Cheng, C., & Gao, Y. (2020). LncRNA SNHG6 can regulate the proliferation and apoptosis of rat degenerate nucleus pulposus cells via regulating the expression of miR-101-3p. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 24(16), 8251–8262.
https://doi.org/10.26355/eurrev_202008_22592

• Gao, Z., Lin, Y., Zhang, P., Cheng, Q., Ye, L., Wu, F., Chen, Y., Fu, M., Cheng, C., & Gao, Y. (2019). Sinomenine ameliorates intervertebral disc degeneration via inhibition of apoptosis and autophagy in vitro and in vivo. American Journal of Translational Research, 11(9), 5956–5966.
https://www.ajtr.org/files/ajtr0094769.pdf

Hanchen Zhou | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hanchen Zhou | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Beijing Stomatological Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University | China

Hanchen Zhou, a graduate student at Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, is an emerging researcher specializing in Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, with a primary focus on oral squamous cell carcinoma. He has already distinguished himself by publishing four SCI-indexed research papers that contribute valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms, clinical behavior, and potential treatment strategies for this aggressive malignancy. These publications, cited internationally, reflect his growing influence in oncology research and his ability to translate clinical challenges into innovative scientific solutions. Zhou is actively engaged in funded research projects, including the Innovation Foundation and the Clinical Research Incubation Project of Beijing Stomatological Hospital, demonstrating his capacity to design and execute impactful investigations. A member of the Chinese Stomatological Association, he actively participates in academic collaboration and professional development, strengthening his role within the wider scientific community. Despite being in the early stages of his career, Zhou has already showcased a strong commitment to advancing cancer research, particularly in bridging experimental findings with clinical applications. His work not only enhances the understanding of oral squamous cell carcinoma but also paves the way for improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. By integrating scientific rigor with a clear vision for innovation, he exemplifies the qualities of a promising researcher poised for long-term impact.

Profile: Scopus | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  • Yu, H., Li, B., Huang, Y., & Zhang, X. (2025). Prognosis of second primary oral squamous cell carcinoma after hematologic malignancy: A retrospective cohort analysis. Frontiers in Oncology, 15, Article 1667226. https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2025.1667226

  • Zhou, H., Luo, C., Xu, Q., & Wang, C. (2025). Machine learning approach to predict surgical site infection in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients after free flap reconstruction. Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcms.2025.09.010

  • Cheng, A., Wei, K., Xu, Q., & Wang, C. (2025). The comparison of the prognostic value of different inflammation-related indicators in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Frontiers in Genetics, 16, Article 1652603. https://doi.org/10.3389/fgene.2025.1652603

  • Li, B., Zhao, Z., Huang, Y., & Zhou, H. (2025). The application of adjuvant radiotherapy in pN1 OSCC patients without adverse pathologic features. Oral Diseases, 31(1), e15336. https://doi.org/10.1111/odi.15336

Long Chang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Long Chang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Peking Union Medical College Hospital | China

Dr. Long Chang is an accomplished physician and clinical researcher whose career demonstrates excellence in patient care and significant contributions to hematology. He currently serves as an Attending Physician at the Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China, building upon his medical training at Peking Union Medical College, Tsinghua University. His research focuses on rare hematologic disorders, particularly myeloproliferative neoplasms and histiocytic diseases, with emphasis on improving diagnostic precision, expanding therapeutic strategies, and enhancing patient outcomes. According to Scopus (Author ID: 57225110413), Dr. Long Chang has authored 39 publications, which have collectively received 165 citations across 152 documents, reflecting the impact of his work, and holds an h-index of 6. He has published influential studies in leading journals including Leukemia, EClinicalMedicine, Oncologist, and Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. His work has advanced treatment options for Rosai-Dorfman disease and Langerhans cell histiocytosis while also providing novel insights into gamma heavy chain disease. Notably, his clinical trials have introduced promising approaches such as low-dose cytarabine and novel immunomodulatory therapies, offering alternatives for conditions with limited treatments. Beyond publications, Dr. Long Chang demonstrates commitment to translational medicine by bridging molecular research with patient-centered care. Recognized by peers for his rigor, innovation, and leadership, he has progressed from Resident and Chief Resident to Attending Physician, reflecting both clinical expertise and academic excellence. With impactful contributions influencing practice worldwide, Dr. Long Chang exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated physician-scientist whose work continues to advance the frontiers of hematology.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Chang, L., Zhou, D. B., & Cao, X. X. (2023). Gamma heavy chain disease: A retrospective analysis of 6 cases. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 18(1), 77.

  • Chang, L., Qiao, B., Cai, H., et al. (2023). Clinical phenotypes, molecular analysis, and outcomes of patients with Rosai-Dorfman disease. Leukemia, 37(11), 2297–2300.

  • Chang, L., Lang, M., Lin, H., et al. (2024). Phase 2 study using low dose cytarabine for adult patients with newly diagnosed Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Leukemia, 38(4), 803–809.

  • Chang, L., Lang, M., Liu, T., et al. (2024). Lenalidomide and dexamethasone for Rosai-Dorfman disease: A single arm, single center, prospective phase 2 study. EClinicalMedicine, 73, 102685.

  • Chang, L., Cai, H. C., Lang, M., et al. (2024). Liver involvement with Langerhans cell histiocytosis in adults. The Oncologist. Advance online publication.

Liliang Li | Medicine and Health Sciences | Excellence in Innovation Award

Prof. Liliang Li | Medicine and Health Sciences | Excellence in Innovation Award

Fudan University | China

Prof. Liliang Li is a leading Associate Professor at Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, recognized for her pioneering research in forensic medicine, cardiovascular biology, and translational pharmacology. She has made significant contributions to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying antipsychotic-induced cardiotoxicity, diabetic heart injuries, and sudden unexplained death in psychiatric patients. Combining innovative molecular approaches with clinical applications, Dr. Li’s research has consistently bridged basic science and translational medicine, influencing both diagnostic strategies and therapeutic development.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education

Prof. Liliang Li received her medical degree in Forensic Medicine followed by a doctoral degree in Forensic Science from Fudan University Shanghai Medical College. She enhanced her academic foundation and international exposure through postdoctoral training and a visiting scholar program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, enabling her to integrate global perspectives into her research.

Experience

Prof. Liliang Li has built an impressive academic and research career, progressing from postdoctoral fellow to Associate Research Fellow, and ultimately assuming her current role as Associate Professor. She has played key roles in mentoring young researchers, organizing graduate research conferences, and serving as a talent specialist. She actively participates in professional committees, including leadership positions within the Shanghai Society of Forensic Medicine, the Shanghai Association of Forensic Expertise, and cardiovascular research societies, demonstrating both scientific excellence and professional commitment.

Research Interests

Her research focuses on the mechanisms of antipsychotic-induced cardiotoxicity, cannabinoid receptor-mediated myocardial signaling, and cell death pathways including necroptosis and pyroptosis. Prof. Liliang Li is particularly interested in the identification of biomarkers for sudden cardiac death and diabetic cardiac injuries. Her work integrates multi-omics approaches, including proteomics, transcriptomics, and molecular biology, to unravel complex cardiovascular and forensic phenomena, with an emphasis on developing translational strategies for clinical and forensic applications.

Awards

Prof. Liliang Li’s innovative work has been widely recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including Young Investigator accolades, national and regional medical science awards, and multiple best paper honors at leading cardiology conferences. She has been nominated for international awards in toxicology, chaired sessions at major scientific meetings, and serves as a reviewer for high-impact journals in cardiovascular medicine, translational research, and molecular biology. These accolades reflect her influence on both national and international scientific communities.

Publications

  • Title: Coenzyme Q deficiency may predispose to sudden unexplained death via an increased risk of cardiac arrhythmia
    Journal: International Journal of Legal Medicine
    Published on: 2024

  • Title: RNF149 Destabilizes IFNGR1 in Macrophages to Favor Postinfarction Cardiac Repair
    Journal: Circulation Research
    Published on: 2024

  • Title: Cardiotoxic effects of common and emerging drugs: role of cannabinoid receptors
    Journal: Clinical Science
    Published on: 2024

  • Title: Post-mortem genetic analysis of sudden unexplained death in a young cohort: a whole-exome sequencing study
    Journal: International Journal of Legal Medicine
    Published on: 2023

  • Title: Nasal mucosa is much more susceptible than oral mucosa to infection of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron subvariants: Wearing nasal masks where facial masks cannot be used
    Journal: Journal of Medical Virology
    Published on: 2023

  • Title: Sudden unexplained death in schizophrenia patients: An autopsy-based comparative study from China
    Journal: Asian Journal of Psychiatry
    Published on: 2023

  • Title: Cannabinoid Receptor 2-Centric Molecular Feedback Loop Drives Necroptosis in Diabetic Heart Injuries
    Journal: Circulation
    Published on: 2023

Conclusion

Prof. Liliang Li is an exceptional scientist whose work exemplifies innovation, rigor, and translational impact. Her integration of forensic science, molecular cardiology, and translational medicine has led to new insights into drug-induced cardiotoxicity and sudden cardiac death. With a remarkable combination of research excellence, leadership, and mentorship, Dr. Li continues to shape the future of cardiovascular and forensic research, making her a highly deserving candidate for the Excellence in Innovation Award.

Fatemeh Shirani | Medicine and Health Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani | Medicine and Health Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center | Iran

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani is a distinguished scholar in the field of Nutritional Sciences, renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to clinical nutrition, dietary epidemiology, and metabolic health. She has consistently advanced the understanding of how diet and nutrition influence chronic disease prevention and treatment, with a strong emphasis on obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Through her innovative research and global collaborations, she has established herself as a thought leader whose work bridges scientific evidence with practical dietary strategies for public health. Currently serving at the Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, she has become a role model for women in science through her dedication, mentorship, and international engagement.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani completed her academic journey with distinction in Nutritional Sciences, earning her foundational and advanced degrees from leading Iranian institutions. She further enriched her expertise through doctoral-level research at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, where she focused on the intricate links between nutrition and chronic diseases. Her academic training was complemented by international research at Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia, where she deepened her skills in nutritional biomedicine and clinical research methodologies. This comprehensive educational background provided her with a strong platform to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application in clinical and population-based nutrition research.

Experience

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani has accumulated extensive experience across research, teaching, and scientific service. She has contributed to large-scale community-based projects, such as national nutrition surveys and heart health programs, aimed at improving public health outcomes through evidence-based interventions. As a dedicated educator, she has taught undergraduate and graduate students, instilling in them the principles of basic nutrition, clinical dietetics, and community health. Her expertise extends to laboratory techniques such as PCR and cell culture, which she has applied to translational nutrition studies. Beyond academia, she has actively participated as a reviewer for prestigious international journals, shaping the quality of published science in her field. Her professional journey reflects a balance of teaching, research, community service, and scientific leadership.

Research Interests

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani’s research interests lie at the intersection of nutrition, epidemiology, and chronic disease management. She is deeply invested in exploring obesity and weight-loss strategies, nutritional interventions for diabetes and metabolic disorders, and the role of diet in preventing cardiovascular disease. Her work also investigates the emerging field of “infectobesity,” examining the connections between viral infections and obesity. By employing systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials, she provides high-quality evidence that informs dietary recommendations and policy guidelines. Her studies not only address the biological mechanisms of nutrition-related diseases but also emphasize the translation of findings into practical interventions for populations at risk.

Awards

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani has been widely recognized for her contributions to nutritional sciences, particularly her ability to merge clinical expertise with public health perspectives. Her nomination for the Women Researcher Award reflects her outstanding achievements in advancing women’s representation in scientific leadership and her sustained impact on global nutrition research. She has consistently demonstrated excellence through her publications, conference presentations, and active participation in national and international nutrition societies. This recognition highlights not only her scientific accomplishments but also her commitment to mentoring young researchers and fostering collaborative networks across borders.

Publication

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani has produced a rich body of work that has been widely cited in international literature. Selected publications include:

Title: Effects of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)-style diet on fatal or nonfatal cardiovascular diseases incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal: Nutrition
Published on: 2013
Citation: 482

Title: The effect of dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet on weight and body composition in adults: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Journal: Obesity Reviews
Published on: 2016
Citation: 308

Title: Effects of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on some risk for developing type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis on controlled clinical trials
Journal: Nutrition
Published on: 2013
Citation: 288

Title: The role of magnesium in sleep health: a systematic review of available literature
Journal: Biological Trace Element Research
Published on: 2023
Citation: 104

Title: Is phase angle a valuable prognostic tool in cancer patients’ survival? A systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature
Journal: Clinical Nutrition
Published on: 2021
Citation: 98

Title: Vinegar consumption can attenuate postprandial glucose and insulin responses; a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Journal: Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
Published on: 2017
Citation: 95

Title: Effects of concentrated pomegranate juice on subclinical inflammation and cardiometabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes: A quasi-experimental study
Journal: International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism
Published on: 2016
Citation: 55

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Fatemeh Shirani stands as a leading figure in nutritional sciences whose contributions have advanced both research and practice in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Her ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical dietary strategies has had a lasting impact on public health. With her strong publication record, global collaborations, and dedication to mentorship, she exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding woman researcher. Her nomination for the Women Researcher Award reflects not only her academic excellence but also her leadership, vision, and commitment to improving health outcomes through nutrition science.